Limit your MacBook's charging to 80% to protect the battery

Why it happens

Lithium batteries age faster when they sit at 100% for long stretches, for example a MacBook that stays plugged in at a desk. A charge limit stops charging at the level you choose, so the battery spends less time full. It's available on Mac laptops with Apple silicon running macOS 26.4 or later.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, and click Battery in the sidebar.

2. Click the info button next to Charging. If you don't see it there, try the one next to Battery Health.

   Battery›Charging

3. Choose your limit with Charge Limit. 80% gives the battery the most care, and 100% turns the limit off.

   Battery›Charging›Charge Limit

4. Click Done. Your Mac stops charging at that level and runs from the adapter while it's plugged in.

Charge Limit arrived in macOS 26.4. On earlier macOS 26 versions the setting isn't there, so install the latest update first. On macOS 27 it's in the same place.

Still not fixed?

1. Don't see Charge Limit? Check General > Software Update and install macOS 26.4 or later. Intel Macs don't have this setting.

   General›Software Update

2. Need a full battery for a trip? Set Charge Limit to 100% the night before, then set it back afterwards.

3. If you'd rather your Mac decide, leave Optimized Battery Charging on in the same panel. It holds at about 80% and finishes charging before you usually unplug.

   Battery›Charging›Optimized Battery Charging

4. If the battery keeps charging past your limit, or Battery Health says Service Recommended, contact Apple Support or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. The battery may need servicing.